We are seeking a results-driven and highly organized Plant Health Care (PHC) Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day operations and long-term development of our growing PHC division. This leadership role will oversee multiple field crews, manage routing and scheduling, coordinate material logistics, and work directly with senior leadership to build scalable systems that support division-wide growth and efficiency.
The ideal candidate has strong operational management skills, a solid understanding of plant health care services, and the ability to drive performance, standardization, and innovation within a service-based organization.
Premier Service provides elite landscape architecture design and snow removal services to commercial and residential clients across Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana.
Operational Oversight
•Manage and oversee daily PHC field operations, including scheduling, routing, and resource allocation for multiple crews.
•Monitor productivity and quality standards across all jobs to ensure efficient, high-quality service delivery.
•Coordinate fleet and equipment needs for PHC operations.
Team Management
•Hire, train, and supervise PHC technicians and applicators.
•Conduct performance reviews, provide coaching, and develop crew leaders.
•Foster a culture of safety, professionalism, and accountability.
Materials & Logistics
•Track inventory and usage of plant health care materials (fertilizers, pesticides, biologicals, etc.).
•Coordinate ordering of materials with central purchasing, ensure proper storage, and distribution of all materials and supplies.
•Ensure all chemical applications comply with local, state, and federal regulations.
Scheduling & Route Optimization
•Develop and manage efficient service routes using scheduling software or GPS-enabled tools.
•Prioritize work based on seasonal needs, client contracts, and diagnostic urgency.
•Adjust crew assignments and schedules in response to weather or staffing changes.
Strategic Planning & Growth
•Partner with leadership to define the vision and structure of the PHC division.
•Develop scalable systems for operations, staffing, and reporting to support future growth.
•Assist in budgeting, forecasting, and KPI tracking for the division.
Collaboration & Communication
•Work closely with sales, customer service, and field teams to coordinate services and resolve issues.
•Attend leadership meetings and provide operational input to drive company-wide strategy.
•Serve as a liaison between crews and upper management, promoting transparency and alignment.
Qualifications:
•5+ years of experience in operations management, preferably in arboriculture, landscaping, or green industry services.
•Demonstrated experience managing multiple crews or field teams.
•Strong organizational and logistical planning skills.
•Knowledge of plant health care practices and chemical application procedures.
•Valid pesticide applicator’s license.
•Proficient with scheduling and CRM software (e.g., Aspire).
•Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
Preferred Qualifications:
•Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Arboriculture, Business Management, or related field.
•ISA Certified Arborist or PHC Specialist.
•Bilingual (Spanish/English).
•Experience implementing or optimizing PHC routing/scheduling systems.
•Ability to work independently and in a collaborative team setting.
•Interest in the landscape industry and willingness to learn its financial nuances.
Benefits:
•Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses. $75K to $85K depending on qualifications.
•Health, dental, and vision insurance.
•401(k) retirement plan with company match.
•Company vehicle or vehicle stipend
•Paid time off and holidays.
•Professional development and training opportunities.
•Opportunity to work in a growing industry focused on sustainability and outdoor design.